Program

Dedicated to Human Transformation and Integrative Learning

With great enthusiasm, I am announcing the creation of “The Embodied Life School”. This school offers a structure through which my associate teachers, future “Embodied Life Guides” and I will present this work in the world. Through cultivating awareness at all levels: physical, emotional, mental, relational and spiritual, our intention is to participate in the evolution of consciousness.

Our understanding is based in the experience of the fundamental unity/interconnection of the inner life and outer world. Learning to ‘wake-up’, with both rigor and kindness, to all phenomena that arise within our perceptual field is the modus operandi. Fear dominates the human heart; this is part of our evolutionary inheritance. Our opportunity- as awakening beings- is to transform the habit of fear into love.

MAIN STUDIES AND PRACTICES

-Embodied Meditation is based in the Zen practice of ‘just sitting’. A strong emphasis is placed on a quality of openness to ‘what is’. Grounded in physical sensations, this openness allows one to relate effectively to all mind states.

-Embodied Movement is based primarily in the teachings of Moshe Feldenkrais. The vast array of movement experiments creates: a template for aware action, a reliable infrastructure for developing presence and helps to de-anchor mental and emotional patterns. Other movement approaches complement this study.

-Embodied Touch is a unique approach for using ‘hands on’ methods for inviting a readiness in the nervous system for learning and healing. Though strongly influenced by the work of Moshe Feldenkrais, this is an original method which connects autonomic learning and conscious imagery.

-Embodied Inquiry is a way of exploring the somatic reality within each thought, belief, emotion and feeling. This investigation has its roots in: Focusing (Eugene Gendlin), Gestalt Psychology (Fritz Perls) and Russell’s original methodologies;

-Embodied Communication grows from the practice of Deep Listening and Non-Violent Communication (Marshall Rosenberg) and provides a framework for engaging authentically and open-heartedly with others.

THE EMBODIED LIFE™ MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

Imagine a group of people committed to a path of integral awareness, consciousness evolution and self-transformation working individually and collectively for three years;

Further, imagine that all participants will grow their capacity for: resting deeply in the present moment with self-observation, a rich bodily sense, intimacy with their feelings, deep listening, and skills to communicate respectfully and authentically.

My great interest comes from the following intuition: at this moment in history, consciousness is ‘asking’ human beings to ripen individually as ‘whole beings’ (bodily, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and in relationship), while moving toward both individual and collective transformation. Said another way, we are being asked to move from fear to love as the dominant operating principle. After years of observing individuals and communities develop strongly in one or two of these realms yet ignore the others, I am fascinated by the experiment of simultaneously developing these capacities as a community of learners.

This program is for people who want to commit to a path of awakening and living using these methodologies. This commitment is essential, as the program requires dedication to certain practices and studies. In addition to cultivating these practices for personal fulfillment, some people will join the program with the intention of using these skills professionally. Those who already work with people- Feldenkrais teachers, therapists, ministers, life coaches, etc.-will use the training to enhance their effectiveness. Further, some people are interested in learning a new way of working with people and will become “Embodied Life Guides”.

Click on link to locate an Embodied Life Graduate (and practicing Embodied Life guide) in the US or Europe and non US.

FORMAT

The core of the program consists of two intensive, residential, weeklong segments per year, for three years. Each day will include a variety of practices including: Embodied Meditation, movement experiments based in the teachings of Moshe Feldenkrais, dialogues, and interactive practices; the curriculum is organized developmentally- emphasizing different capacities in each segment. Each week includes 50 hours of class/practice time or 300 hours for the program. It is possible to receive documention of hours for students seeking CEU's. There are 10 CEU's per year based on classroom hours.

In addition to the core program, each student will have an individualized study program. Depending on the intention of the student, these inter-segment study programs might require attendance at other seminars/classes, practice sessions with friends, reading, and/or communication with the group. An ELMP board is in place for program communications. Each program has a separate board as well as a global community forum for all current and graduate US and European Embodied Life students. These boards or forums offer connection, inspiration and valuable information regarding relative research, teaching suggestions, recomended reading, supplimental classes offered and hot of the press writings from Russell.

The mentor relationship with Russell will vary depending on the intentions, needs and learning style of the student. All students may have one optional meeting with Russell each year and will be expected to communicate between segments, usually through email. Those with the intention of becoming “Embodied Life Guides” can expect some writing as part of the program.

STUDY GROUPS (LEARNING COMMUNITIES)

As is already happening in some cities, our intention is for study groups to form throughout the world where people interested in exploring this integrated approach will meet together in mutual support. The majority of these people will not be part of the ELMP but will be individuals who have attended seminars with Russell or simply have an interest in deepening their capacity for awareness and presence through these methodologies. People in the ELMP will become the guides for these local groups.

US ~ NOW Accepting Applications Santa Sabina 5 *This program is now full with a waiting list

The dates for Santa Sabina 5 are:

Week 1: Sept 26-October 2, 2017

Week 2: April 3-9, 2018

Week 3: Sept 25-October 1, 2018

Week 4: March 26-31, 2019

Week 5: Sept 24-30, 2019

Week 6: March 24-30, 2020

Santa Sabina is located in San Rafael, CA. The beautiful grounds and contemplative atmosphere will support your learning and practices of the Embodied Life work. To find out more about the center click here.

Santa Sabina is located in San Rafael, CA. The beautiful grounds and contemplative atmosphere will support your learning and practices of the Embodied Life work. To find out more about the center click here.

Europe ~ NOW accepting applications Zist 4 *This program is now full with a waiting list

You must send in an application, as group size is limited (Each group is expected to be 28-32 people). Programs fill quickly so we encourage you to apply if you are considering joining a program. Upon acceptance you will receive a formal letter of acceptance with details about the program as well as options for payment. A recommended reading list will be included.

Students and teachers are expected to maintain study and practices throughout the year, do assignments and communicate in a timely manner.

Participants are asked to familiarize themselves with Russell’s “The Embodied Life l” and “The Embodied Life II” audio programs (click here). Attendance at a residential retreat with Russell is required unless waived by Russell due to special circumstances.

Cost

The cost of the programs are twofold, tuition plus room and board for the two week-long retreats each year. The tuition for US programs is $1895 a year or $5685 for the three years. The European programs are € 1875 per year or €5625 for the three years. This amount can be paid yearly, twice a year or in a payment plan arranged through the office that fits your financial needs. The cost of lodging is different for each program, and are subject to yearly price increases. Payments for room and board are due one month prior to the retreat. Once you have been accepted into a program you will receive information regarding your specific program. If you have questions please direct them to the office office@russelldelman.com.